French cities urged to lead on single-use plastic reduction

Zero Waste France published a policy report ahead of the 2026 municipal elections urging local governments to reduce single-use plastics; it notes average plastic consumption in France is about 70 kg per person per year and says recycling alone is insufficient to meet reduction goals.

Zero Waste France has published a policy report that encourages municipal governments to take a leading role in reducing single-use plastics ahead of the 2026 municipal elections. The document frames municipal policies and zero waste strategies as tools to cut disposable packaging and to support circular economy goals. It places these local actions in the context of national and European laws that target single-use items and notes that current recycling performance falls short of reducing overall waste. Key points: - The report urges local governments to use their powers over services and permits to reduce single-use plastic in canteens, sports and cultural facilities, and at markets and events. - It reports average plastic consumption in France at about 70 kg per person per year, with a large share from single-use packaging. - The European Union's Single-Use Plastics Directive bans many disposable items, and France's Anti-Waste for a Circular Economy Law aims to eliminate all single-use plastic packaging by 2040. - The brief says recycling alone is insufficient and calls for greater emphasis on reduction, reuse practices, and public-sector leadership. - The organisation suggests transparent reporting using indicators such as volume of plastic avoided and number of events or markets free of disposable packaging. Summary: The report positions municipal policy as an important lever to reduce single-use plastics and to create demand for reusable alternatives, highlighting examples of local efforts and recommending procurement standards and reporting. It notes the 2026 municipal elections as a context for local debate and potential policy adoption. Undetermined at this time.